Responsible processes
The Department of Materials is a proud holder of an Athena SWAN Silver Award; recognition of our commitment to equality, diversion and inclusion, and includes all staff regardless of position or gender.
Socially responsible process are in place within the Department so that each choice or administrative procedure follows a socially responsible path. Our aim is to make the socially responsible choice the easy or only choice.
Examples of these policies are listed below.
Recruitment
All of our job adverts promote our commitment to Athena SWAN principles. Where there is underrepresentation, job adverts will in future include a statement actively encouraging applications from that group of people; for example gender or ethnicity. The Department is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN charter for gender equality in higher education.
Induction
The Department, as part of its induction process, talks to all new starters about The University of Manchester's commitment to social responsibility. We also have a plan to reinforce social responsibility as a part of our processes with the Director of Social Responsibility presenting at staff meetings and away days where appropriate.
Procurement
Wherever possible the Department uses approved suppliers on iProc and eMarketplace that have been vetted by The University of Manchester.
Travel
The Department actively encourages staff to travel responsibly and whenever possible to use alternative methods such as Skype or conference calls to minimise and avoid any non-essential travel. Where travel is deemed necessary, staff are encouraged to coordinate several meetings and other events so multiple trips can be avoided.